Campaigners rally in round two of Branston Locks fight

CAMPAIGNERS fighting the development of a ‘new community’ on the outskirts of Burton are hoping for a second bite of the cherry when it goes back before planners.

Proposals for 2,500 homes and services at Branston Locks were given the go-ahead in November, but the matter is due back before a committee on Monday to consider further objections made as part of the case.

Hundreds of representations have been received by East Staffordshire Borough Council since the approval, raising highways issues, safety concerns and access worries, and despite the fact councillors have been advised to permit it once again, some are hopeful of changing their minds.

Jan Shand, from Shobnall Traffic Action Group, said: “I hope they will take some note of the considerable objections that people have put in, especially the issues around the school and the road.

“The situation with the proposed junction and roundabout outside the school is our biggest concern, and something people didn’t know about.

“This is an opportunity for the planning committee to look at it again.”

The application has returned to the planning committee because of new information which was only revealed at the time of the last meeting. The changes meant that further consultation was required.

By its close, 17 letters had been received raising objections, along with 167 copies of a letter signed by parents at Shobnall Primary School and an extensive response from the residents of Shobnall Grange, who feel they will be adversely affected by the development.

In a report on the issue, a council spokesman said: “All the concerns have been addressed as part of the consideration of the scheme.”

It is recommended for approval by the board.

The site, which is owned by Nurton Developments, will also include an hotel, a care home, shops, a bar restaurant and a new primary school.